Political Quotes

Thomas Paine: It requires some talents to be a common mechanic; but to be a king requires only the animal figure of man--a sort of…

On the recordJanuary 1, 1791
It requires some talents to be a common mechanic; but to be a king requires only the animal figure of man--a sort of breathing automaton.
Said by
Thomas Paine

Editor's note · Context

In "Rights of Man," Paine satirically contrasts the skills needed for a common trade with the lack of qualifications required for a hereditary monarch.

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